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WO2018061313A1 - Dispositif de formation d'image et cartouche - Google Patents

Dispositif de formation d'image et cartouche Download PDF

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Publication number
WO2018061313A1
WO2018061313A1 PCT/JP2017/019224 JP2017019224W WO2018061313A1 WO 2018061313 A1 WO2018061313 A1 WO 2018061313A1 JP 2017019224 W JP2017019224 W JP 2017019224W WO 2018061313 A1 WO2018061313 A1 WO 2018061313A1
Authority
WO
WIPO (PCT)
Prior art keywords
value
cartridge
image forming
forming apparatus
memory
Prior art date
Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
Ceased
Application number
PCT/JP2017/019224
Other languages
English (en)
Japanese (ja)
Inventor
貴史 鈴木
遠藤　好則
Current Assignee (The listed assignees may be inaccurate. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation or warranty as to the accuracy of the list.)
Brother Industries Ltd
Original Assignee
Brother Industries Ltd
Priority date (The priority date is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the date listed.)
Filing date
Publication date
Application filed by Brother Industries Ltd filed Critical Brother Industries Ltd
Publication of WO2018061313A1 publication Critical patent/WO2018061313A1/fr
Anticipated expiration legal-status Critical
Ceased legal-status Critical Current

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Classifications

    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B41—PRINTING; LINING MACHINES; TYPEWRITERS; STAMPS
    • B41J—TYPEWRITERS; SELECTIVE PRINTING MECHANISMS, i.e. MECHANISMS PRINTING OTHERWISE THAN FROM A FORME; CORRECTION OF TYPOGRAPHICAL ERRORS
    • B41J29/00—Details of, or accessories for, typewriters or selective printing mechanisms not otherwise provided for
    • B41J29/38—Drives, motors, controls or automatic cut-off devices for the entire printing mechanism
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B41—PRINTING; LINING MACHINES; TYPEWRITERS; STAMPS
    • B41J—TYPEWRITERS; SELECTIVE PRINTING MECHANISMS, i.e. MECHANISMS PRINTING OTHERWISE THAN FROM A FORME; CORRECTION OF TYPOGRAPHICAL ERRORS
    • B41J29/00—Details of, or accessories for, typewriters or selective printing mechanisms not otherwise provided for
    • B41J29/42—Scales and indicators, e.g. for determining side margins
    • G—PHYSICS
    • G03—PHOTOGRAPHY; CINEMATOGRAPHY; ANALOGOUS TECHNIQUES USING WAVES OTHER THAN OPTICAL WAVES; ELECTROGRAPHY; HOLOGRAPHY
    • G03G—ELECTROGRAPHY; ELECTROPHOTOGRAPHY; MAGNETOGRAPHY
    • G03G15/00—Apparatus for electrographic processes using a charge pattern
    • G03G15/06—Apparatus for electrographic processes using a charge pattern for developing
    • G03G15/08—Apparatus for electrographic processes using a charge pattern for developing using a solid developer, e.g. powder developer
    • G—PHYSICS
    • G03—PHOTOGRAPHY; CINEMATOGRAPHY; ANALOGOUS TECHNIQUES USING WAVES OTHER THAN OPTICAL WAVES; ELECTROGRAPHY; HOLOGRAPHY
    • G03G—ELECTROGRAPHY; ELECTROPHOTOGRAPHY; MAGNETOGRAPHY
    • G03G21/00—Arrangements not provided for by groups G03G13/00 - G03G19/00, e.g. cleaning, elimination of residual charge
    • G—PHYSICS
    • G03—PHOTOGRAPHY; CINEMATOGRAPHY; ANALOGOUS TECHNIQUES USING WAVES OTHER THAN OPTICAL WAVES; ELECTROGRAPHY; HOLOGRAPHY
    • G03G—ELECTROGRAPHY; ELECTROPHOTOGRAPHY; MAGNETOGRAPHY
    • G03G21/00—Arrangements not provided for by groups G03G13/00 - G03G19/00, e.g. cleaning, elimination of residual charge
    • G03G21/16—Mechanical means for facilitating the maintenance of the apparatus, e.g. modular arrangements
    • G—PHYSICS
    • G03—PHOTOGRAPHY; CINEMATOGRAPHY; ANALOGOUS TECHNIQUES USING WAVES OTHER THAN OPTICAL WAVES; ELECTROGRAPHY; HOLOGRAPHY
    • G03G—ELECTROGRAPHY; ELECTROPHOTOGRAPHY; MAGNETOGRAPHY
    • G03G21/00—Arrangements not provided for by groups G03G13/00 - G03G19/00, e.g. cleaning, elimination of residual charge
    • G03G21/16—Mechanical means for facilitating the maintenance of the apparatus, e.g. modular arrangements
    • G03G21/18—Mechanical means for facilitating the maintenance of the apparatus, e.g. modular arrangements using a processing cartridge, whereby the process cartridge comprises at least two image processing means in a single unit

Definitions

  • the present invention relates to an image forming apparatus and a cartridge used in the image forming apparatus.
  • electrophotographic image forming apparatuses such as laser printers and LED printers are known.
  • a cartridge can be attached to and detached from the image forming apparatus.
  • the cartridge contains a developer such as toner.
  • Yield information such as the number of printable sheets is defined for the cartridge.
  • the image forming apparatus manages the life of the cartridge based on the yield information.
  • a conventional image forming apparatus and cartridge are described in Patent Document 1, for example.
  • the cartridge of Patent Document 1 has an IC chip. As described in Patent Document 1, information such as the number of printable sheets is stored in the IC chip. However, when yield information such as the number of printable sheets is read from the IC chip, it is necessary to store different numerical values in advance for each cartridge specification in the IC chip memory.
  • a first invention of the present application is a cartridge capable of containing a developer, a detection gear rotatable about a shaft extending in a predetermined direction, and a protrusion that moves as the detection gear rotates. And a first memory that stores a basic value that is a numerical value for life management of the cartridge, a sensor that detects movement of the protrusion, a second memory, and a control unit.
  • An image forming apparatus wherein the control unit causes a corresponding value corresponding to a detection signal obtained from the sensor to be added to or subtracted from the basic value when the cartridge is attached to the image forming apparatus.
  • a storage process of storing in the second memory an updated value obtained by adding or subtracting the corresponding value to the basic value is
  • a second invention of the present application is the image forming apparatus according to the first invention, wherein the calculation process adds the corresponding value to the basic value, and the storage process adds the corresponding value to the basic value.
  • the update value is stored in the second memory.
  • a third invention of the present application is the image forming apparatus according to the second invention, wherein the basic value represents the number of prints that can be printed by the cartridge or the dot count that can be recorded by the cartridge, The corresponding value, the number of printed sheets already printed by the cartridge, or a use value that is a numerical value representing a dot count already recorded by the cartridge are added to the basic value, and the storage process The updated value obtained by adding the corresponding value and the use value to a basic value is stored in the second memory.
  • a fifth invention of the present application is the image forming apparatus according to any one of the second to fourth inventions, wherein the image forming apparatus further includes an image forming unit and a display unit, and the control unit includes: An update process for incrementing the update value stored in the second memory according to an image forming operation of the image forming unit, and a determination for determining whether the update value is equal to or greater than a preset upper limit value And a notification process for displaying a notification on the display unit when the update value is determined to be greater than or equal to the upper limit value by the determination process.
  • 6th invention of this application is an image forming apparatus of 5th invention, Comprising: The said control part subtracted the said update value from the said upper limit with respect to the numerical value which subtracted the said basic value and the said corresponding value from the said upper limit. It is possible to further execute a remaining amount display process for displaying a numerical ratio on the display unit.
  • a seventh invention of the present application is the image forming apparatus according to the first invention, wherein the arithmetic processing subtracts the corresponding value from the basic value, and the storage processing subtracts the corresponding value from the basic value.
  • the update value is stored in the second memory.
  • An eighth invention of the present application is the image forming apparatus according to the seventh invention, wherein the basic value represents the number of prints that can be printed by the cartridge or the dot count that can be recorded by the cartridge, From the basic value, the corresponding value is subtracted from the number of prints already printed by the cartridge or a use value that is a numerical value representing a dot count already recorded by the cartridge, and the storage process The updated value obtained by subtracting the corresponding value and the use value from a base value is stored in the second memory.
  • An eleventh invention of the present application is the image forming apparatus according to the tenth invention, wherein the control unit subtracts the lower limit value from the update value with respect to a numerical value obtained by subtracting the corresponding value and the lower limit value from the basic value. It is possible to further execute a remaining amount display process for displaying a numerical ratio on the display unit.
  • a twelfth aspect of the present invention is the image forming apparatus according to any one of the first to eleventh aspects, wherein the basic value is larger than zero.
  • a thirteenth invention of the present application is the image forming apparatus according to any one of the first to twelfth inventions, wherein the control unit determines whether the cartridge is new based on a detection signal obtained from the sensor. In addition, when the detection process determines that the cartridge is new, the calculation process adds or subtracts the corresponding value to the basic value. And
  • a seventeenth aspect of the present invention is the cartridge according to the sixteenth aspect, wherein the basic value represents the number of prints that can be printed by the cartridge or the dot count that can be recorded by the cartridge, and the correspondence to the basic value.
  • the updated value obtained by adding the value and the number of prints already printed by the cartridge or the use value that is a numerical value representing the dot count already recorded by the cartridge can be stored in the first memory. It is characterized by.
  • the nineteenth invention of the present application is the cartridge of the fifteenth invention, wherein an updated value obtained by subtracting the corresponding value from the basic value can be stored in the first memory.
  • a twentieth aspect of the present invention is the cartridge according to the nineteenth aspect, wherein the basic value represents the number of prints that can be printed by the cartridge or the dot count that can be recorded by the cartridge.
  • the updated value obtained by subtracting a value and a use value that is a numerical value representing a dot count already recorded by the cartridge or a dot count already recorded by the cartridge can be stored in the first memory.
  • FIG. 16 It is the block diagram which showed notionally the connection of a control part and four cartridge IC.
  • 6 is a flowchart showing a flow of processing executed after the developing cartridge is mounted on the drawer unit.
  • 6 is a flowchart showing a flow of processing executed after the developing cartridge is mounted on the drawer unit. It is the figure which showed each numerical value which appears in the process of FIG. 13 notionally. It is the figure which showed the example of remaining amount display.
  • 10 is a flowchart showing a flow of processing executed after the developing cartridge is mounted on the drawer unit in the first modified example. It is the figure which showed each numerical value which appears in the process of FIG. 16 notionally.
  • FIG. 2 is a perspective view of the drawer unit 91 and the developing cartridge 1.
  • the four developing cartridges 1 can be individually replaced with respect to the drawer unit 91.
  • the drawer unit 91 is pulled out from the front surface of the image forming apparatus 100.
  • the developer cartridge 1 is removed and attached in an arbitrary slot 910 provided in the drawer unit 91.
  • a photosensitive drum 911 is provided near the bottom of each of the four slots 910.
  • the four developing cartridges 1 are mounted on one drawer unit 91.
  • the four developing cartridges 1 store developers of different colors (for example, cyan, magenta, yellow, and black).
  • the number of developing cartridges 1 attached to the drawer unit 91 may be 1 to 3, or 5 or more.
  • each of the four developing cartridges 1 has a cartridge IC 61.
  • the cartridge IC 61 is an IC chip capable of reading and writing information.
  • the cartridge IC 61 is an example of an IC chip.
  • the image forming apparatus 100 includes a control unit 93 and a display 94.
  • the control unit 93 includes a processor 931 (see FIG. 11) such as a CPU and various memories.
  • the control part 93 is comprised by the circuit board, for example.
  • the control unit 93 executes various processes in the image forming apparatus 100 when the processor 931 operates according to a program.
  • the display 94 is a display unit that displays various information related to the operation of the image forming apparatus 100 on the screen in accordance with instructions from the control unit 93.
  • the display 94 is an example of a display unit.
  • Casing 10 is a housing that can accommodate a developer.
  • the casing 10 extends in the first direction (an example of a predetermined direction) between the first end surface 11 and the second end surface 12.
  • the first gear unit 40 and the IC chip assembly 60 are located on the first end surface 11.
  • the second gear portion 50 is located on the second end surface 12.
  • a storage chamber 13 is provided inside the casing 10.
  • the developer is stored in the storage chamber 13.
  • the casing 10 has an opening 14.
  • the opening 14 is located at the end of the casing 10 in the second direction orthogonal to the first direction.
  • the storage chamber 13 communicates with the outside through the opening 14.
  • the developing roller 30 is a roller that can rotate about a rotating shaft extending in the first direction.
  • the developing roller 30 is disposed in the opening 14 of the casing 10.
  • the developing roller 30 of this embodiment includes a developing roller main body 31 and a developing roller shaft 32.
  • the developing roller body 31 is a cylindrical member extending in the first direction.
  • elastic rubber is used as the material of the developing roller body 31, for example, elastic rubber is used.
  • the developing roller shaft 32 is a cylindrical member that penetrates the developing roller body 31 in the first direction.
  • the material of the developing roller shaft 32 is a metal or a resin having conductivity.
  • the developing roller body 31 is fixed to the developing roller shaft 32 so that it cannot rotate relative to the developing roller shaft 32.
  • the developing roller shaft 32 may not penetrate the developing roller main body 31 in the first direction.
  • the pair of developing roller shafts 32 may extend in the first direction from both ends of the developing roller main body 31 in the first direction.
  • the developing cartridge 1 has a supply roller (not shown).
  • the supply roller is located between the developing roller 30 and the storage chamber 13.
  • the supply roller is rotatable about a rotation shaft extending in the first direction.
  • the developing cartridge 1 receives a driving force, the developer is supplied from the storage chamber 13 in the casing 10 to the outer peripheral surface of the developing roller main body 31 via the supply roller. At that time, the developer is frictionally charged between the supply roller and the developing roller 30.
  • a bias voltage is applied to the developing roller shaft 32 of the developing roller 30. For this reason, the developer is attracted to the outer peripheral surface of the developing roller body 31 by the electrostatic force between the developing roller shaft 32 and the developer.
  • the developing cartridge 1 has a layer thickness regulating blade (not shown).
  • the layer thickness regulating blade shapes the developer supplied to the outer peripheral surface of the developing roller body 31 to a constant thickness. Thereafter, the developer on the outer peripheral surface of the developing roller body 31 is supplied to the photosensitive drum 911 provided in the drawer unit 91. At this time, the developer moves from the developing roller body 31 to the photosensitive drum 911 according to the electrostatic latent image formed on the outer peripheral surface of the photosensitive drum 911. Thereby, the electrostatic latent image is visualized on the outer peripheral surface of the photosensitive drum 911.
  • FIG. 5 is a perspective view of the developing cartridge 1 in a state where the first gear portion 40 is disassembled.
  • the first gear unit 40 includes a coupling 41, a developing roller gear 42, an idle gear 43, a first agitator gear 44, and a first cover 45.
  • illustration of a plurality of gear teeth of each gear is omitted.
  • the coupling 41 is a gear that first receives the driving force supplied from the image forming apparatus 100.
  • the coupling 41 can rotate around a rotation axis extending in the first direction.
  • the coupling 41 includes a coupling portion 411 and a coupling gear 412.
  • the coupling part 411 and the coupling gear 412 are integrally formed of resin, for example.
  • the coupling portion 411 is provided with a fastening hole 413 that is recessed in the first direction.
  • a plurality of gear teeth are provided on the outer peripheral portion of the coupling gear 412 at equal intervals over the entire circumference.
  • the developing roller gear 42 is a gear for rotating the developing roller 30.
  • the developing roller gear 42 can rotate around a rotation axis extending in the first direction.
  • On the outer peripheral portion of the developing roller gear 42 a plurality of gear teeth are provided at equal intervals over the entire periphery. A part of the plurality of gear teeth of the coupling gear 412 and a part of the plurality of gear teeth of the developing roller gear 42 mesh with each other.
  • the developing roller gear 42 is attached to the end portion of the developing roller shaft 32 of the developing roller 30 in the first direction so as not to be relatively rotatable. Therefore, when the coupling gear 412 rotates, the developing roller gear 42 rotates, and the developing roller 30 rotates together with the developing roller gear 42.
  • the idle gear 43 is a gear for transmitting the rotation of the coupling gear 412 to the first agitator gear 44.
  • the idle gear 43 can rotate around a rotation axis extending in the first direction.
  • the idle gear 43 has a large-diameter gear portion 431 and a small-diameter gear portion 432 arranged in the first direction.
  • the small diameter gear portion 432 is located between the large diameter gear portion 431 and the first end surface 11 of the casing 10. In other words, the large diameter gear portion 431 is farther from the first end surface 11 than the small diameter gear portion 432.
  • the diameter of the tip circle of the small diameter gear portion 432 is smaller than the diameter of the tip circle of the large diameter gear portion 431.
  • the large-diameter gear portion 431 and the small-diameter gear portion 432 are integrally formed of resin, for example.
  • a plurality of gear teeth are provided on the outer peripheral portions of the large-diameter gear portion 431 and the small-diameter gear portion 432 at equal intervals over the entire circumference.
  • the number of gear teeth of the small diameter gear portion 432 is smaller than the number of gear teeth of the large diameter gear portion 431.
  • a part of the plurality of gear teeth of the coupling gear 412 and a part of the plurality of gear teeth of the large-diameter gear portion 431 mesh with each other.
  • some of the plurality of gear teeth of the small diameter gear portion 432 and some of the plurality of gear teeth of the first agitator gear 44 mesh with each other.
  • the coupling gear 412 rotates
  • the large diameter gear portion 431 rotates
  • the small diameter gear portion 432 also rotates together with the large diameter gear portion 431.
  • the first agitator gear 44 rotates as the small diameter gear portion 432 rotates.
  • the first agitator gear 44 is a gear for rotating the agitator 20 in the storage chamber 13.
  • the first agitator gear 44 can rotate around a rotation axis extending in the first direction.
  • a plurality of gear teeth are provided on the outer periphery of the first agitator gear 44 at equal intervals over the entire circumference. As described above, some of the plurality of gear teeth of the small diameter gear portion 432 and some of the plurality of gear teeth of the first agitator gear 44 mesh with each other.
  • the first agitator gear 44 is fixed to one end of the agitator shaft 21 in the first direction so as not to be relatively rotatable. Therefore, when power is transmitted from the coupling 41 to the first agitator gear 44 via the idle gear 43, the first agitator gear 44 rotates and the agitator 20 also rotates together with the first agitator gear 44.
  • the first cover 45 is fixed to the first end surface 11 of the casing 10 by, for example, screwing.
  • the coupling gear 412, the developing roller gear 42, the idle gear 43, and the first agitator gear 44 are accommodated in a space defined between the first end surface 11 and the first cover 45.
  • the fastening hole 413 of the coupling part 411 is exposed to the outside of the first cover 45.
  • the first cover 45 of this embodiment also serves as a holder cover that holds a holder 62 of an IC chip assembly 60 described later.
  • FIG. 6 is a perspective view of the developing cartridge 1 in a state where the second gear portion 50 is disassembled.
  • the second gear unit 50 includes a second agitator gear 51, a detection gear 52, a conductive member 53, and a second cover 54.
  • the gear teeth of the second agitator gear 51 are not shown.
  • the second agitator gear 51 is a gear for transmitting the rotation of the agitator shaft 21 to the detection gear 52.
  • the second agitator gear 51 can rotate around a rotation axis extending in the first direction.
  • On the outer periphery of the second agitator gear 51 a plurality of gear teeth are provided at equal intervals over the entire circumference.
  • some of the plurality of gear teeth of the second agitator gear 51 can mesh with some of the plurality of gear teeth of the detection gear 52.
  • the second agitator gear 51 is fixed to the other end of the agitator shaft 21 in the first direction so as not to be relatively rotatable. For this reason, when the agitator shaft 21 rotates, the second agitator gear 51 also rotates.
  • the detection gear 52 is a gear for indicating information on the developing cartridge 1 to the image forming apparatus 100.
  • the information on the developing cartridge 1 includes information on whether the developing cartridge 1 is a new (unused) developing cartridge or an old (used) developing cartridge.
  • the information on the developing cartridge 1 includes the specifications of the developing cartridge 1.
  • the specification of the developing cartridge 1 includes, for example, the toner capacity of the developing cartridge 1.
  • the detection gear 52 can rotate around a rotation axis extending in the first direction.
  • the detection gear 52 has a plurality of gear teeth on a part of the outer periphery.
  • the coupling 41 receives driving force from the image forming apparatus 100.
  • the second agitator gear 51 is rotated by the driving force transmitted from the coupling 41 via the idle gear 43, the first agitator gear 44, and the agitator 20.
  • the detection gear 52 rotates by meshing with the second agitator gear 51.
  • the detection gear 52 has gear teeth only on a part of the outer peripheral surface. For this reason, when the detection gear 52 rotates by a predetermined angle, the second agitator gear 51 and the detection gear 52 are disengaged, and the rotation of the detection gear 52 stops.
  • the engagement between the second agitator gear 51 and the detection gear 52 is disengaged. For this reason, when the developing cartridge 1 once used is detached from the image forming apparatus 100 and attached to the image forming apparatus 100 again, the rotation of the second agitator gear 51 is not transmitted to the detection gear 52. Therefore, the detection gear 52 does not rotate.
  • the second gear unit 50 may have a second idle gear that meshes with both the second agitator gear 51 and the detection gear 52. Then, the rotation of the second agitator gear 51 may be transmitted to the detection gear 52 via the second idle gear.
  • FIG. 7 is a perspective view of the detection gear 52.
  • the detection gear 52 has a first protrusion 521 (an example of a protrusion).
  • the first protrusion 521 protrudes in the first direction. Further, the first protrusion 521 extends in an arc shape around the rotation axis of the detection gear 52.
  • the first protrusion 521 also rotates. In other words, the first protrusion 521 moves as the detection gear 52 rotates. That is, the position of the first protrusion 521 changes as the detection gear 52 rotates.
  • the conductive member 53 is a conductive member. As the material of the conductive member 53, a metal that is a conductor or a conductive resin is used. The conductive member 53 is located on the second end surface 12 of the casing 10. The conductive member 53 has a cylindrical gear shaft 531 protruding in the first direction. The detection gear 52 rotates around the gear shaft 531 while being supported by the gear shaft 531. As shown in FIG. 7, the first protrusion 521 partially covers the periphery of the gear shaft 531. The conductive member 53 has a bearing portion 532. The bearing portion 532 contacts the developing roller shaft 32 of the developing roller 30.
  • the second cover 54 is fixed to the second end surface 12 of the casing 10 by, for example, screwing.
  • the second agitator gear 51, the detection gear 52, and the conductive member 53 are accommodated in a space defined between the second end surface 12 and the second cover 54.
  • the second cover 54 has an opening 541. A part of the first protrusion 521 and a part of the gear shaft 531 are exposed to the outside of the second cover 54 through the opening 541.
  • the drawer unit 91 includes a lever 912 and an optical sensor 913 (an example of a sensor).
  • the lever 912 may be provided in the image forming apparatus 100 instead of the drawer unit 91.
  • the optical sensor 913 may be provided in the image forming apparatus 100 instead of the drawer unit 91.
  • FIGS. 8 and 9 are diagrams showing the relationship among the first protrusion 521, the gear shaft 531, the lever 912, the optical sensor 913, and the control unit 93.
  • FIG. As shown in FIGS. 8 and 9, the lever 912 can contact the gear shaft 531 and the first protrusion 521.
  • a conductive metal plate 914 is attached to the surface of the lever 912. Electric power V is supplied from the controller 93 to the metal plate 914. As shown in FIG. 8, when the metal plate 914 contacts the gear shaft 531, the metal plate 914, the conductive member 53, and the developing roller shaft 32 are electrically connected. When the image forming apparatus 100 is driven, the developing roller shaft 32 is maintained at a predetermined bias voltage by the power supplied from the metal plate 914.
  • the first protrusion 521 partially covers the outer peripheral surface of the gear shaft 531.
  • the contact state between the metal plate 914 and the gear shaft 531 changes according to the shape of the detection gear 52. To do. That is, the metal plate 914 temporarily leaves the gear shaft 531 and contacts only the first protrusion 521 as shown in FIG.
  • the lever 912 moves between the first position where the metal plate 914 contacts the gear shaft 531 and the second position where the metal plate 914 is separated from the gear shaft 531.
  • the optical sensor 913 detects the displacement of the lever 912 and transmits a detection signal 70 (an example of a signal) to the control unit 93.
  • a detection signal 70 an example of a signal
  • FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating an example of the detection signal 70 obtained from the optical sensor 913.
  • the detection signal 70 may be high when the lever 912 is in the first position, and the detection signal 70 may be low when the lever 912 is in the second position.
  • the detection signal 70 output from the optical sensor 913 has a waveform that changes between Low (first state) and High (second state). Based on the waveform of the detection signal 70 obtained from the optical sensor 913, the control unit 93 of the image forming apparatus 100 identifies whether or not the mounted developing cartridge 1 is new and the specifications of the developing cartridge 1.
  • the optical sensor 913 of the present embodiment detects the movement of the first protrusion 521 via the lever 912.
  • the optical sensor 913 may directly detect the movement of the first protrusion 521.
  • a magnetic sensor or a contact sensor may be used instead of the optical sensor 913.
  • the movement of the first protrusion 521 may be detected based on the presence or absence of electrical continuity between the metal plate 914 and the gear shaft 531.
  • the IC chip assembly 60 is disposed outside the first end surface 11 of the casing 10. As shown in FIGS. 3 to 6, the IC chip assembly 60 includes a cartridge IC 61 that is an IC chip and a holder 62. The cartridge IC 61 is fixed to the outer surface of the holder 62. The holder 62 is held by the first cover 45. The cartridge IC 61 has an electrical contact surface. The electrical contact surface is made of a metal that is a conductor. Further, the cartridge IC 61 has a first memory 610 (an example of a memory) that is a storage medium. The first memory 610 stores a basic value B. The basic value B is a numerical value for life management of the developing cartridge 1. The basic value B is used by the control unit 93 to calculate the number of printable sheets by the developing cartridge 1 after the developing cartridge 1 is mounted.
  • the drawer unit 91 has an electrical connector for each slot 910.
  • the electrical connector is electrically connected to the control unit 93 in the image forming apparatus 100.
  • the electrical connector of the drawer unit 91 and the electrical contact surface of the cartridge IC 61 come into contact with each other.
  • the image forming apparatus 100 can read information from the cartridge IC 61 and write information to the cartridge IC 61.
  • FIG. 11 is a block diagram conceptually showing the connection between the controller 93 and the four cartridge ICs 61.
  • the control unit 93 includes a processor 931, a storage unit 932, a second memory 933, and an NVRAM 934.
  • the processor 931 is an arithmetic processing unit such as a CPU.
  • the processor 931 can write information into and read information from the storage unit 932, the second memory 933, and the NVRAM 934. Further, the processor 931 can read information from the four cartridge ICs 61.
  • the storage unit 932 stores a program 935 that can be read by the processor 931.
  • the control unit 93 operates when the processor 931 executes the program 935.
  • the second memory 933 is a volatile memory capable of writing and reading information.
  • the processor 931 expands the information stored in the cartridge IC 61 in the second memory 933. As a result, the processor 931 can quickly read information stored in the cartridge IC 61 from the second memory 933. Further, when the control unit 93 acquires the detection signal 70 from the optical sensor 913, the control unit 93 stores the acquired detection signal 70 in the second memory 933.
  • processing executed after developing cartridge is mounted will be described with reference to the flowcharts of FIGS. 12 and 13 may be executed when the image forming apparatus 100 is turned on with the developing cartridge 1 mounted.
  • the process performed by the control unit 93 is executed by the processor 931 operating according to the program 935. In the following, processing for one developing cartridge 1 will be described, but the same processing is executed for each of the four developing cartridges 1.
  • the control unit 93 first determines whether or not the developing cartridge 1 is present (step S1).
  • the image forming apparatus 100 includes a cartridge sensor (not shown) that detects the presence or absence of the developing cartridge 1 for each slot 910 of the drawer unit 91.
  • the controller 93 determines whether there is a developing cartridge 1 for each slot 910 based on a signal output from the cartridge sensor. Note that the control unit 93 may determine whether or not the developing cartridge 1 is present using the signal output from the optical sensor 913 described above.
  • step S1 When it is determined that the developing cartridge 1 is not present in the slot 910 of the drawer unit 91 (step S1: No), the control unit 93 displays an error or warning on the display 94 (step S2). Specifically, a message prepared in advance is displayed on the display 94. Accordingly, the control unit 93 notifies the user that the developing cartridge 1 is not installed in the slot 910 of the drawer unit 91 or that the developing cartridge 1 is not installed completely.
  • the inclination of the lever 912 changes according to the movement of the first protrusion 521.
  • the optical sensor 913 transmits a detection signal 70 that changes according to the displacement of the lever 912 to the control unit 93. Thereby, the control part 93 acquires the input waveform which changes according to rotation of the detection gear 52 (step S4).
  • the control unit 93 stops the driving of the motor (step S5).
  • the control unit 93 causes the second memory 933 to store the detection signal 70 indicating the obtained input waveform.
  • the controller 93 determines whether the waveform of the detection signal 70 is a new waveform indicating that the developing cartridge 1 is new (step S6, detection process).
  • a feature of a new waveform is stored in advance in the storage unit 932 in the control unit 93.
  • the control unit 93 determines whether the waveform of the detection signal 70 matches the feature of the new waveform stored in the storage unit 932. For example, when the developing cartridge 1 that has been used once is taken out from the image forming apparatus 100 and mounted again in the image forming apparatus 100, the waveform of the detection signal 70 is the new waveform stored in the storage unit 932. Does not match (step S6: No). In this case, the control unit 93 determines that the detection signal 70 is not a new waveform. Then, the control unit 93 stores a determination result indicating that the developing cartridge 1 is an old product in the second memory 933 (step S7).
  • step S7 may not be executed.
  • the control unit 93 may read a use value P, which will be described later, from the first memory 610.
  • step S6 determines that the waveform of the detection signal 70 matches the new waveform
  • step S8 displays the determination result that the developing cartridge 1 is new as the second memory 933.
  • Step S8 the control unit 93 continues to perform the processes after step S9.
  • FIG. 14 is a diagram conceptually showing each numerical value appearing in the processing after step S9.
  • the controller 93 first identifies the toner capacity of the developing cartridge 1 (step S9).
  • the storage unit 932 in the control unit 93 stores a correspondence relationship between the waveform of the detection signal 70 and the toner capacity in advance.
  • the control unit 93 specifies the toner capacity corresponding to the waveform of the detection signal 70 stored in the second memory 933 based on the correspondence relationship stored in the storage unit 932. Then, the control unit 93 stores the specified toner capacity in the second memory 933.
  • the controller 93 determines the printable sheet number N of the developing cartridge 1 (step S10).
  • the storage unit 932 in the control unit 93 stores a correspondence relationship between the toner capacity and the printable sheet number N in advance.
  • the control unit 93 specifies the printable sheet number N corresponding to the toner capacity stored in the second memory 933 based on the correspondence relationship stored in the storage unit 932. Then, the controller 93 stores the specified printable sheet number N in the second memory 933.
  • the storage unit 932 stores an upper limit value Max in advance.
  • the upper limit value Max is a fixed value used for the processing of steps S14 and S19 described later.
  • the upper limit value Max is a numerical value larger than 0, for example.
  • the control unit 93 reads the upper limit value Max from the storage unit 932 (step S11). Specifically, the control unit 93 stores the upper limit value Max stored in the storage unit 932 in the second memory 933.
  • the controller 93 authenticates the cartridge IC 61 (step S12).
  • the processor 931 determines whether the information stored in the first memory 610 in the cartridge IC 61 matches the information stored in the IC chip (not shown) in the control unit 93. Is done by doing.
  • the controller 93 determines that the authentication of the cartridge IC 61 has succeeded (for example, the information stored in the first memory 610 in the cartridge IC 61 matches the information stored in the IC chip in the controller 93).
  • the controller 93 reads the basic value B and the use value P from the first memory 610 in the cartridge IC 61 (step S13). Specifically, the control unit 93 reads the basic value B and the usage value P from the first memory 610 and stores the basic value B and the usage value P in the second memory 933.
  • the basic value B is a numerical value that is used as a basis for arithmetic processing described later, and is a fixed value set in advance.
  • the base value B may be 0 or a numerical value greater than 0.
  • the use value P is a numerical value representing the number of printed sheets already printed by the developing cartridge 1. In step S ⁇ b> 6 described above, the control unit 93 determines that the developing cartridge 1 is new, and if the determination is correct, the use value P is 0.
  • step S12 control is performed when authentication of the cartridge IC 61 has failed (for example, information stored in the first memory 610 in the cartridge IC 61 does not match information stored in the IC chip in the control unit 93).
  • the control unit 93 may display an error or warning on the display 94.
  • the printable sheet number N is determined based on the detection signal 70 obtained from the optical sensor 913. Therefore, the corresponding value I calculated based on the above formula (1) is a numerical value corresponding to the detection signal 70 obtained from the optical sensor 913.
  • the control unit 93 calculates the update value Q by adding the corresponding value I and the use value P to the basic value B (step S15, calculation processing). That is, the control unit 93 calculates the update value Q by the following formula (2). At this time, the control unit 93 may store a value obtained by adding the corresponding value I and the use value P in the first memory 610 as a new use value P. And the control part 93 memorize
  • Q B + I + P (2)
  • the control unit 93 increments the update value Q as indicated by the broken line arrow in FIG. 14 (step S17, update process).
  • the control unit 93 increments the update value Q stored in the second memory 933 in accordance with the image forming operation of the image forming unit 92. Specifically, each time the image forming unit 92 performs an image forming operation on the printing paper, the control unit 93 uses the update value Q stored in the second memory 933 as the number of printing papers on which the image is formed. Rewrite to a value incremented by minutes.
  • the control unit 93 increments the use value P stored in the first memory 610 of the cartridge IC 61 (step S18).
  • the control unit 93 increments the use value P stored in the first memory 610 in accordance with the image forming operation of the image forming unit 92. Specifically, each time the image forming unit 92 performs an image forming operation on the printing paper, the control unit 93 uses the usage value P stored in the first memory 610 as the number of printing papers on which the image is formed. Rewrite to a value incremented by minutes.
  • control unit 93 determines whether the update value Q stored in the second memory 933 is equal to or greater than the upper limit value Max (step S19, determination processing). Specifically, the control unit 93 compares the update value Q stored in the second memory 933 with the upper limit value Max. If the update value Q is less than the upper limit value Max (step S19: No), the process returns to step S17 and the printing process is continued.
  • step S19: Yes the control unit 93 displays a notification on the display 94 (step S20, notification process). Specifically, the control unit 93 causes the display 94 to display a message stored in advance in the storage unit 932. This notifies the user that the expiration date of the developing cartridge 1 has arrived.
  • the corresponding value I corresponding to the detection signal 70 and the use value P are added to the basic value B stored in the cartridge IC 61. To do. Then, the lifetime of the developing cartridge 1 is managed by incrementing an update value Q, which is a value after addition, according to the image forming operation. Therefore, if the shape of the first protrusion 521 of the detection gear 52 is changed for each specification of the developing cartridge 1, the life management of the developing cartridge 1 according to the specification can be performed. Therefore, it is not necessary to store different numerical values in advance in the cartridge IC 61 for each specification of the developing cartridge 1.
  • the control unit 93 calculates the ratio T of the remaining amount of toner, for example, using the following formula (3).
  • T [%] 100 ⁇ (Max ⁇ Q) / (Max ⁇ BI) (3)
  • Equation (3) a numerical value obtained by subtracting the update value Q at that time from the upper limit value Max is used as a numerator.
  • This numerical value (Max-Q) represents the remaining number of prints that can be printed using the developing cartridge 1.
  • a numerical value obtained by subtracting the basic value B and the corresponding value I from the upper limit value Max is used as the denominator. That is, the calculated ratio T is a ratio of a numerical value obtained by subtracting the update value Q at that time from the upper limit value Max with respect to a numerical value obtained by subtracting the basic value B and the corresponding value I from the upper limit value Max.
  • the control unit 93 visually displays the calculated ratio T on the display 94 using a figure as shown in FIG.
  • the update process in step S17 is a so-called count-up method in which the update value Q is incremented according to the image forming operation.
  • the update process in step S17 may be a so-called countdown method in which the update value Q is decremented according to the image forming operation.
  • the basic value B is a numerical value that is used as a basis for arithmetic processing described later, and is a fixed value set in advance.
  • the base value B is a numerical value larger than 0, for example.
  • the use value P is a numerical value representing the number of printed sheets already printed by the developing cartridge 1.
  • the printable sheet number N is determined based on the detection signal 70 obtained from the optical sensor 913. Therefore, the corresponding value I calculated based on the above equation (4) is a numerical value corresponding to the detection signal 70 obtained from the optical sensor 913.
  • control unit 93 decrements the update value Q as indicated by the broken line arrow in FIG. 17 (step S117, update process).
  • the control unit 93 decrements the update value Q stored in the second memory 933 in accordance with the image forming operation of the image forming unit 92. Specifically, each time the image forming unit 92 performs an image forming operation on the printing paper, the control unit 93 uses the update value Q stored in the second memory 933 as the number of printing papers on which the image is formed. Rewrite to the value decremented by minutes.
  • control unit 93 increments the use value P stored in the first memory 610 of the cartridge IC 61 as in the above embodiment (step S118).
  • step S119 Yes
  • the control unit 93 displays a notification on the display 94 (step S120, notification process). Specifically, the control unit 93 causes the display 94 to display a message stored in advance in the storage unit 932. This notifies the user that the expiration date of the developing cartridge 1 has arrived.
  • the corresponding value I corresponding to the detection signal 70 and the use value are determined from the basic value B stored in the cartridge IC 61. Subtract P. Then, the lifetime of the developing cartridge 1 is managed by decrementing the updated value Q, which is a numerical value after subtraction, according to the image forming operation. Therefore, if the shape of the first protrusion 521 of the detection gear 52 is changed for each specification of the developing cartridge 1, the life management of the developing cartridge 1 according to the specification can be performed. Therefore, it is not necessary to store different numerical values in advance in the cartridge IC 61 for each specification of the developing cartridge 1.
  • control unit 93 calculates the remaining amount ratio T of the toner to be displayed in the remaining amount display process using, for example, the following formula (6).
  • T [%] 100 ⁇ (Q ⁇ Min) / (BI ⁇ Min) (6)
  • Equation (6) a numerical value obtained by subtracting the lower limit Min from the updated value Q at that time is used as a numerator.
  • This numerical value (QM) represents the remaining number of prints that can be printed using the developing cartridge 1.
  • a numerical value obtained by subtracting the corresponding value I and the lower limit value Min from the basic value B is used as the denominator. That is, the calculated ratio T is a ratio of a numerical value obtained by subtracting the lower limit value Min from the update value Q at that time to the numerical value obtained by subtracting the corresponding value I and the lower limit value Min from the basic value B.
  • the control unit 93 visually displays the calculated ratio T on the display 94 using a figure as shown in FIG.
  • the ratio T of the remaining amount of toner is already 100 immediately after the new developing cartridge 1 is mounted on the image forming apparatus 100. Displayed smaller than%.
  • the numerical value obtained by subtracting the corresponding value I and the lower limit Min from the basic value B is used as the denominator as in the above formula (6), the remaining toner ratio T when the new developing cartridge 1 is inserted. Can be displayed as 100%.
  • the number of highs in the detection signal 70 is 1. Further, the high time when the detection gear in the second modification is used is shorter than the high time when the detection gear 52 of FIGS. 8 and 9 is used. Therefore, in the toner capacity identification process in step S9 described above, the detection gear 52 in FIGS. 8 and 9 and the detection gear in the second modification can be identified.
  • the outer end portion (first outer end portion) of the first protrusion 521B with respect to the rotation shaft of the detection gear and the outer end portion (second outer end portion) of the second protrusion 522B with respect to the rotation shaft of the detection gear are Separated in the direction of rotation.
  • the first protrusion 521B and the second protrusion 522B move together with the detection gear.
  • the first protrusion 521B contacts the lever 912.
  • the second protrusion 522B contacts the lever 912. Accordingly, the lever 912 rotates twice from the first position to the second position as the detection gear rotates.
  • the optical sensor 913 detects that the lever 912 is rotated twice.
  • the detection signal 70 of the optical sensor 913 changes depending on the circumferential interval between the two protrusions and the circumferential length of each protrusion. Accordingly, a large number of different toner capacities can be represented by the positions and shapes of the two protrusions.
  • the controller 93 may identify the toner capacity of the developing cartridge based on the detection signal 70 obtained by such movement of the first protrusion 521B and the second protrusion 522B.
  • the number of highs in the detection signal 70 is 2. Further, the high time due to the movement of the first protrusion 521B when the detection gear in the third modification is used is shorter than the high time when the detection gear 52 of FIGS. 8 and 9 is used. Therefore, in the toner capacity identifying process in step S9 described above, the detection gears in FIGS. 8 and 9 and the second modified example and the detected gear in the third modified example can be identified.
  • FIG. 20 is a diagram illustrating a relationship among the first protrusion 521C, the second protrusion 522C, the third protrusion 523C (an example of the protrusion), the gear shaft 531, the lever 912, the optical sensor 913, and the control unit 93 according to the fourth modified example. It is.
  • the detection gear includes a first protrusion 521C, a second protrusion 522C, and a third protrusion 523C.
  • the first protrusion 521C, the second protrusion 522C, and the third protrusion 523C are arranged at different positions around the rotation axis of the detection gear.
  • the first protrusion 521C, the second protrusion 522C, and the third protrusion 523C move together with the detection gear. Therefore, the lever 912 rotates three times from the first position to the second position as the detection gear rotates.
  • the optical sensor 913 detects that the lever 912 is rotated three times.
  • the detection signal 70 of the optical sensor 913 changes depending on the circumferential interval between the three projections and the circumferential length of each projection. Accordingly, a large number of different toner volumes can be represented by the positions and shapes of the three protrusions.
  • the controller 93 may identify the toner capacity of the developing cartridge based on the detection signal 70 obtained by such movement of the first protrusion 521C, the second protrusion 522C, and the third protrusion 523C.
  • the number of highs in the detection signal 70 is 3.
  • the High time due to the movement of the first protrusion 521C is shorter than the High time when the detection gear 52 of FIGS. 8 and 9 is used. Therefore, in the toner capacity identifying process in step S9 described above, the detection gears of FIGS. 8, 9, 2nd and 3rd modifications, and the detection gear of the 4th modification can be identified. .
  • FIG. 21 is a diagram illustrating a relationship among the first protrusion 521D, the second protrusion 522D, the gear shaft 531, the lever 912, the optical sensor 913, and the control unit 93 according to the fifth modification.
  • the detection gear includes a first protrusion 521D and a second protrusion 522D.
  • the first protrusion 521D and the second protrusion 522D respectively extend in the first direction at different positions around the rotation axis of the detection gear.
  • the first protrusion 521D and the second protrusion 522D move together with the detection gear.
  • the first protrusion 521D contacts the lever 912.
  • the second protrusion 522D comes into contact with the lever 912. Accordingly, the lever 912 rotates twice from the first position to the second position as the detection gear rotates.
  • the optical sensor 913 detects that the lever 912 is rotated twice.
  • the circumferential length of the second protrusion 522D is longer than the circumferential length of the first protrusion 521D. For this reason, the time when the lever 912 is positioned at the second position due to the movement of the second protrusion 522D is longer than the time when the lever 912 is positioned at the second position due to the movement of the first protrusion 521D.
  • the optical sensor 913 determines that the lever 912 is in the second position due to the movement of the first protrusion 521D. The time when the lever 912 is positioned at the second position by the movement of the second protrusion 522D can be detected as different times. Therefore, the first protrusion 521D and the second protrusion 522D can represent a larger toner capacity.
  • the number of highs in the detection signal 70 is 2.
  • the High time due to the movement of the first protrusion 521D is shorter than the High time when the detection gear 52 of FIGS. 8 and 9 is used.
  • the high time by the movement of the second protrusion 522D when the detection gear in the fifth modification is used is the time of the second protrusions 522B and 522C when the detection gear of the third modification and the fourth modification is used. It becomes longer than High time by movement. Therefore, in the toner capacity identification process in step S9 described above, the detection gears of FIGS. 8, 9, 2nd, 3rd, and 4th modification, and the detection gear of the 5th modification, Can be identified.
  • FIG. 22 is a diagram illustrating a relationship among the detection gear 52E, the optical sensor 913, and the control unit 93 according to the sixth modification.
  • the detection gear 52E and the first protrusion 521E are separate members.
  • the detection gear 52E has a plurality of gear teeth and rotates around the rotation axis. When the detection gear 52E rotates, the first protrusion 521E moves in the axial direction along the surface shape of the detection gear 52E.
  • the optical sensor 913 transmits a detection signal 70 that changes according to the axial displacement of the first protrusion 521E to the control unit 93.
  • the detection gear and the first protrusion may be separate members.
  • the first protrusion may be displaced in the axial direction. Even when such a detection gear 52E is used, the detection signal 70 that changes between Low (first state) and High (second state) can be obtained. Therefore, the control unit 93 can identify the toner capacity of the developing cartridge based on the waveform of the detection signal 70 in the toner capacity identifying process in step S9 described above.
  • FIG. 23 is a perspective view of a developing cartridge 1F of a seventh modified example.
  • the developing cartridge 1F has a gear portion 40F only on the first end surface 11F which is one end surface in the first direction of the casing 10F.
  • the gear portion 40F is covered with a cover 45F.
  • FIG. 24 is a plan view of the gear unit 40F viewed in the first direction with the cover 45F removed.
  • a plurality of gears from the coupling 41F to the detection gear 52F are arranged on the first end face 11F of the casing 10F.
  • a plurality of gears may be collectively arranged on the first end surface 11F of the casing 10F.
  • position the cartridge IC to the 2nd end surface which is the other end surface of the 1st direction of the casing 10F for example.
  • control unit 93 can identify the toner capacity of the developing cartridge based on the waveform of the detection signal 70 in the toner capacity identifying process in step S9 described above.
  • FIG. 26 is a plan view of a detection gear 52G according to an eighth modification.
  • the first protrusion 521G and the second protrusion 522G each extend radially outward from the cylindrical portion 520G.
  • the circumferential length of the first protrusion 521G and the circumferential length of the second protrusion 522G are the same. That is, in the example of FIG. 26, the circumferential length of the second protrusion is shorter than in the example of FIG.
  • different toner capacities can be expressed by changing the circumferential length of the second protrusion.
  • the number of High in the detection signal 70 is 2.
  • the High time due to the movement of the second protrusion 522G when the detection gear 52G of FIG. 26 is used is shorter than the High time due to the movement of the second protrusion 522F when the detection gear 52F of FIG. 25 is used. . Therefore, in the toner capacity identifying process in step S9 described above, the detection gear 52F in FIG. 25 and the detection gear 52G in FIG. 26 can be identified.
  • the circumferential interval between the first protrusion and the second protrusion is larger than in the example of FIG.
  • different toner capacities can be expressed by changing the circumferential interval between the first protrusion and the second protrusion.
  • the detection gear 52H of FIG. 27 When the detection gear 52H of FIG. 27 is used, the number of High in the detection signal 70 is 2. In addition, the low time between two highs when the detection gear 52H of FIG. 27 is used is lower than the low time between two highs when the detection gears 52F and 52G of FIG. 25 and FIG. 26 are used. Even longer. Therefore, the detection gears 52F and 52G in FIGS. 25 and 26 and the detection gear 52H in FIG. 27 can be identified in the toner capacity identification process in step S9 described above.
  • FIG. 28 is a plan view of the detection gear 52I according to the tenth modification.
  • the detection gear 52I has a first protrusion 521I, a second protrusion 522I, and a third protrusion 523I.
  • the first protrusion 521I, the second protrusion 522I, and the third protrusion 523I each extend radially outward from the cylindrical portion 520I. Further, the first protrusion 521I, the second protrusion 522I, and the third protrusion 523I are arranged at different positions in the circumferential direction.
  • the detection signal 70 of the optical sensor 913 changes depending on the circumferential interval between the three protrusions and the circumferential length of each protrusion. Therefore, more different toner capacities can be represented by the positions and shapes of the three protrusions.
  • the detection gear 52I of FIG. 28 When the detection gear 52I of FIG. 28 is used, the number of High in the detection signal 70 is 3. Therefore, in the toner capacity identifying process in step S9 described above, the detection gears 52F, 52G, and 52H in FIGS. 25, 26, and 27 and the detection gear 52I in FIG. 28 can be identified.
  • the number of protrusions of the detection gear may be four or more.
  • the upper limit value Max, the basic value B, the corresponding value I, the use value P, and the update value Q all represent the number of printed sheets.
  • the lower limit value Min, the basic value B, the corresponding value I, the use value P, and the update value Q all represent the number of printed sheets.
  • the upper limit value Max, the lower limit value Min, the basic value B, the corresponding value I, the use value P, and the update value Q may be numerical values representing dot counts that can be recorded by the developing cartridge 1.
  • the upper limit value Max, the lower limit value Min, the basic value B, the corresponding value I, the use value P, and the update value Q may be numerical values representing the rotation speed of the developing roller 30.
  • control unit 93 adds the corresponding value I and the use value P to the basic value B in the calculation process of step S15.
  • the addition of the use value P may be omitted. That is, the control unit 93 may calculate the update value Q by adding only the corresponding value I to the basic value B.
  • control unit 93 subtracts the corresponding value I and the use value P from the basic value B in the calculation process of step S115.
  • the subtraction of the use value P may be omitted. That is, the control unit 93 may calculate the update value Q by subtracting only the corresponding value I from the base value B.
  • the cartridge IC 61 having an electrical contact surface is fixed to the outer surface of the holder 62.
  • the electrical contact surface may be fixed to the outer surface of the holder 62, and the first memory 610 of the cartridge IC 61 may be disposed in another part of the developing cartridge 1.
  • the storage medium having the first memory 610 is the cartridge IC 61 that is an IC chip.
  • the storage medium having the first memory 610 may be a storage device other than the IC chip.
  • the control unit 93 may execute the various steps described above using information stored in the first memory 610 instead of the second memory 933. For example, in step S ⁇ b> 16 of the above embodiment or the first modification, the control unit 93 may store the calculated update value Q in the first memory 610. In step S ⁇ b> 17, the control unit 93 may increment or decrement the update value Q stored in the first memory 610.
  • the plurality of gears in the first gear portion 40 and the second gear portion 50 are engaged with each other by meshing of gear teeth.
  • the plurality of gears in the first gear unit 40 and the second gear unit 50 may be engaged with each other by frictional force.
  • a friction member for example, rubber
  • the developing cartridge 1 may be attachable to the drum cartridge.
  • the drum cartridge is a cartridge having one photosensitive drum.
  • the developing cartridge 1 may be a process cartridge having a photosensitive drum.
  • the process cartridge is a single cartridge including a developing roller and a photosensitive drum.
  • a toner cartridge may be used instead of the developing cartridge 1.
  • the toner cartridge is a cartridge that can accommodate toner and does not have a developing roller.
  • the optical sensor 913 detects the displacement of the lever 912.
  • a detection mechanism that detects electrical connection may be used instead of the optical sensor 913.
  • an electric circuit in the image forming apparatus when any one of the first protrusion 521, the second protrusion 522, and the third protrusion 523 comes into contact with the lever 912 and the lever 912 is disposed at the second position, an electric circuit in the image forming apparatus. The electrical connection is turned on. Then, the detection mechanism detects that the electrical connection of the electric circuit is ON.
  • the lever 912 when none of the first protrusion 521, the second protrusion 522, and the third protrusion 523 is in contact with the lever 912, the lever 912 is disposed at the first position, and the electrical connection of the electric circuit is turned off. . Then, the detection mechanism detects that the electrical connection of the electric circuit is turned off.
  • step S6 and step S7 shown in FIG. 12 may be executed by the controller 93 simultaneously with the processing from step S3 to step S5 related to driving of the motor.

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  • General Physics & Mathematics (AREA)
  • Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
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Abstract

L'invention concerne une technique pour permettre, dans un dispositif de formation d'image et une cartouche utilisée pour le dispositif de formation d'image, de réduire le temps nécessaire afin de stocker différentes valeurs numériques pour différentes spécifications à l'avance dans une mémoire de la cartouche. Ce dispositif de formation d'image comprend un capteur pour détecter le mouvement d'une saillie dans une cartouche. Lorsque la cartouche est montée sur le dispositif de formation d'image, une unité de commande du dispositif de formation d'image peut augmenter ou diminuer une valeur numérique pour gérer la durée de vie de la cartouche sur la base d'un signal de détection obtenu à partir du capteur. La modification de la forme de la saillie pour différentes spécifications de la cartouche permet de gérer la durée de vie conformément aux spécifications. Il n'est donc pas nécessaire d'avoir stocké différentes valeurs numériques pour différentes spécifications à l'avance dans une mémoire de la cartouche.
PCT/JP2017/019224 2016-09-30 2017-05-23 Dispositif de formation d'image et cartouche Ceased WO2018061313A1 (fr)

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JP2016193690A JP2018055016A (ja) 2016-09-30 2016-09-30 画像形成装置およびカートリッジ

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JP7367320B2 (ja) * 2019-03-28 2023-10-24 ブラザー工業株式会社 現像カートリッジ、ドラムカートリッジ、ベルトユニットおよび画像形成装置

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JP2003302871A (ja) * 2002-04-11 2003-10-24 Canon Inc 画像形成装置
JP2004309534A (ja) * 2003-04-02 2004-11-04 Seiko Epson Corp トナー消費量演算装置および方法と画像形成装置
JP2006267528A (ja) * 2005-03-24 2006-10-05 Oki Data Corp 画像形成装置及びトナーカートリッジ
JP2007148285A (ja) * 2005-11-30 2007-06-14 Brother Ind Ltd 画像形成装置および現像カートリッジ
JP2010078966A (ja) * 2008-09-26 2010-04-08 Fuji Xerox Co Ltd 画像形成装置
JP2012198297A (ja) * 2011-03-18 2012-10-18 Ricoh Co Ltd 画像形成装置、その記憶装置の管理方法及び管理制御プログラム
JP2012242631A (ja) * 2011-05-20 2012-12-10 Kyocera Document Solutions Inc 画像形成装置

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Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
JPH10254305A (ja) * 1997-03-12 1998-09-25 Pfu Ltd プリンタ装置の制御方法
JP2003302871A (ja) * 2002-04-11 2003-10-24 Canon Inc 画像形成装置
JP2004309534A (ja) * 2003-04-02 2004-11-04 Seiko Epson Corp トナー消費量演算装置および方法と画像形成装置
JP2006267528A (ja) * 2005-03-24 2006-10-05 Oki Data Corp 画像形成装置及びトナーカートリッジ
JP2007148285A (ja) * 2005-11-30 2007-06-14 Brother Ind Ltd 画像形成装置および現像カートリッジ
JP2010078966A (ja) * 2008-09-26 2010-04-08 Fuji Xerox Co Ltd 画像形成装置
JP2012198297A (ja) * 2011-03-18 2012-10-18 Ricoh Co Ltd 画像形成装置、その記憶装置の管理方法及び管理制御プログラム
JP2012242631A (ja) * 2011-05-20 2012-12-10 Kyocera Document Solutions Inc 画像形成装置

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